Dental care & Dentistry

According to the stats*, 80% of dogs and 70% of cats have oral disease by the age of 3. It is the most frequently diagnosed health problem in pets. Common signs of oral disease include tartar build-up, red and swollen gums, bad breath, changes in eating or chewing habits, pawing at the face, and generalized depression.

A veterinarian should evaluate your pet’s dental health at least once a year. We recommend this because bacteria and food debris accumulate around a pet’s teeth and, if left unchecked, will lead to deterioration of the soft tissue and bone surrounding the teeth. This decay results in irreversible periodontal disease, and even tooth loss.

You should pay close attention to your pet’s dental health since a dental disease can affect other organs in the body. For instance, bacteria in the mouth can get into the bloodstream and may cause serious kidney infections, liver disease, lung disease, and heart valve disease. Oral disease can also indicate that another disease process is occurring elsewhere in a pet’s body. A thorough physical exam combined with appropriate laboratory work can determine if this is the case.

Our team can recommend and demonstrate preventive measures you can begin at home. Our wellness program emphasizes and explains how you can avoid costly dental procedures with your pet in the future. If necessary, our veterinarians can perform dental surgeries for your dog or cat. These surgeries may range from gum disease treatment and tooth extractions to jaw fracture repairs.